How "Polished" is your concrete?

As the popularity of polished concrete continues to rise; due to it's long term durability, cost savings and over all stylish looks; it seems so does the curiosity around it.  While many contractors and architects know what polished concrete is, the language and expectations surrounding the amount of shine or finished looked is as wide ranging as those very experts. 

The first step toward your polish concrete finish is asking, What kind of finish is desired or works with the project? Dull and matte? Low sheen? shiny look that is slightly cloudy? High sheen with high clarity? Depending on the finish you want your certified installer will use different levels of diamond tooling to achieve your finish. 

Next, talk at length with your installer about expectations surrounding aggregate exposure and level of shine. Each floor will have it's unique finish, part of the beauty of polish, however your installer should be able to explain what steps he will take to achieve your discussed expectations. The installer should be able to tell you what grit diamond he will use to achieve your look. For example, if you want a low sheen that from a distance, the floor will start to reflect images from the side your installer might refer to this as a level 2 shine, using up to a 400 grit diamond.

Call Protec Solutions today for more information on different levels of polished concrete finishes, stains or the finishing process. We are happy to provide a complimentary quote or to simply discuss the possibilities of how Protec can bring you solutions.

How slip resistant is Polished Concrete?

Polished concrete floors are quickly becoming the must have finish in industrial, commercial, retail and even residential spaces. It’s no wonder with a cost effective smooth as glass finish that looks good and offers the best in protection. So it looks good, but is it safe?

The polished concrete glossy mirror like finish gives a slippery appearance only. In reality they are completely safe to walk and work on when kept clean and dry. In fact, the right finish will make polished concrete less slippery than waxed linoleum or polished marble.

However any floor finish can become a slip and fall hazard in high traffic areas if proper preventions aren’t taken. For the safest results possible be sure to follow these tips:

•    Keep polished floors free of oil, grease and standing water. Follow a routine maintenance program, and clean spills and stains from the floor as soon as possible.

•    Apply an anti-slip conditioner. These products contain special additives designed to improve traction and make wet surfaces safer. They must be reapplied periodically, but they can simply be mopped on during routine cleaning.

•    Have Protec Solutions apply a sealer coat to polished concrete that contains an anti-slip grit additive. These products are simply mixed into the sealer before applying to increase traction without taking away from the appearance of the polished surface.